Betty Kay Bissell, my mother

I have to do this. This, being one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do in my life. I know that what I write here could never do my mother the justice she deserves. But I have to do this here and now.

Yesterday, as I was getting ready to go fishing with Dave I heard my father screaming. I ran upstairs and found my mother passed out on the floor. I immediately called 911.

She was lethargic and very weak and could not speak, but she could nod and shake her head, yes and no. The fire department and paramedics arrivedly quickly and took her to Eden hospital, the place where I was born 34 years ago.

A blood vessel had burst inside her head. She soon went into a deep coma. At 12:25 am on May 18th 2006 she passed away.

I will be missing in action for an indeterminate amount of time.

I love you Mom. I miss you.

0 replies on “Betty Kay Bissell, my mother”

  1. Tom,
    I check your blog every couple of days or so and I always anticipate reading about your adventures….until today.

    I am so sorry to hear about your mom. What a truly devastating loss. Your family will be in my thoughts.

  2. I know I already told you, but again I wanted to say I’m sorry Tom. You know where to find all of us if you need ANYTHING.

    And if, after things settle down, you need to clear your head and take a trip, we have a guest room in Long Beach with your name on it.

    Hang in there.

  3. I am so sorry for your loss Tom. My thoughts are with you and your family.

    I would have liked to have met your mother. I am sure she was a fantastic woman.

    Cherish every minute that you had with her and take solace in the fact that she must have loved you very much.

    Stay strong.

    Your Friend,
    Rob

  4. Hey Tom, I just found your blog from Michelle’s blog and saw your first post…I am so sorry for the loss of your mother. I don’t know if you remember my brother David, but he died several years ago and I experienced the loss of a family member. I can’t say I know how you feel because every person is special to someone in their own special way.

    Just know that you and your family are in our thoughts.

    The pain will eventually go away, but not the memories…Cherish them.

    Daly

  5. Daly Harnish, I do remember you. Thank you, and all of you, for you kind words. As for words, right now I am at a loss. So let me simply say “thank you”.

  6. I am so sorry for your loss.
    I don’t even know what to say except that we are thinking of you. You and your family are in our hearts and prayers.
    If you need anything just let us know.

  7. Tom,

    My wife and I cannot tell you how very deeply saddened we were when our son David informed us of your mothers passing. Please accept our deepest sympathy in this time of grief and if there is ever anything that we can do for you please call

    With deepest sympathy
    David & Jane Finn

  8. Tom,

    I remeber how great Mrs. Bissell was to me while we were young Navy lads. She treated me so well and always made me feel welcome in your home despite being so far from my own. Always willing to make me a meal or smile at our stories, Betty will be truly missed. Please give my regards to Tom Jr. as well as Becky and Debroah. Betty will be in my prayers and those of my family.

    Your life friend,
    Andrew